VSFX 130 Visual Effects-based Cinematography I
This course explores the foundations of cinematography relating to the visual effects industry. Introductory concepts are explored, including shot definition, framing, technique and technology. Students shoot short subjects with an emphasis on the technical aspects of the art. Prerequisite: CMPA 110.

VSFX 160 Introduction to Visual Effects Programming
In this programming course, students are introduced to workstation text editing, LINUX/UNIX file management, the LINUX/UNIX environment, LINUX/UNIX shell scripting and basic object-oriented programming. Prerequisite: CMPA 110.

VSFX 210 Digital 3-D Visual Effects
This course explores space environments, including the foundations of modeling techniques for the creation of digital sets and effects. Shading techniques and natural and studio digital lighting are introduced. Motion studies specific to camera animation, special effects motion, complex parenting techniques, key frame interpolation techniques and basic expression animation techniques are covered. Prerequisite: VSFX 130.

VSFX 270 Compositing
This course covers methods of composing computer- generated imagery and live images, along with layering, keying and matting, effects creation, motion control and tracking, film and lighting effects, image manipulation, retouching, color correction, painting, stabilization and rotoscoping. Feature film-level composing tools are used to develop skills and presentations with meaningful effects. Prerequisite: VSFX 130, VSFX 160.

VSFX 310 Matte Painting
Digital matte painting explores the techniques of 2-D image creation for use as backgrounds and set extensions. Students are introduced to the digital tool set and techniques required for matte painting, as well as the history of the art. Projects and skills may complement later classes that deal with related fields such as live action, 3-D and compositing. Prerequisite: VSFX 130.

VSFX 319 Programming Models and Shaders I
This course covers intermediate concepts in programming, with an emphasis on understanding the foundations of 3-D modeling, lighting and shading, and the use of C/C++ and Pixar's RenderMan scene description languages. Students also learn Pixar's shading language for rendering special effects. Prerequisites: VSFX 210 or ANIM 250.

VSFX 330 Visual Effects-based Cinematography II
This course explores advanced theory of aesthetic and technical aspects of cinematography. A full production component is included, with a focus on the technical requirements for shooting on site and enhancing postproduction results. Prerequisite: VSFX 130.

VSFX 350 Procedural Modeling and Animation
Procedural modeling and animation techniques allow animators to create environments of limitless complexity. Scenes are defined by relationships rather than singularities. Students are expected to utilize programming and text editing skills to develop dynamic digital effects. Prerequisites: VSFX 210 or ANIM 250.

VSFX 406 Concept Development for Visual Effects
In this course, students are expected to develop methods for cultivating ideas and an understanding of narrative storytelling as it relates to film language, screen design and concept development. Prerequisite: VSFX 160, VSFX 210.

VSFX 408 Visual Effects Studio I
In this course, students are introduced to the preproduction phase including analysis and critique, organization and scheduling. The goal is to create a coherent body of work expressing students' artistic visions through acquired skills. Prerequisite: VSFX 406.

VSFX 419 Programming Models and Shaders II
This course explores programming concepts used to create 3-D lighting scenarios and environments, with a focus on developing a personal aesthetic. Students apply these concepts to create code-based shaders, scripts and other procedures to develop aesthetically strong visuals for long formats. Prerequisite: VSFX 319.

VSFX 424 Digital Visual Effects II
This course examines advanced techniques in the production of 3-D, noncharacter-based models and environments, the course also expands on and extrapolates from additional foundations set in Digital Visual Effects I with an opportunity for individual exploration. Prerequisite: VSFX 210.

VSFX 428 Particles and Procedural Effects
This course investigates the manufacture of atmospheric and surface independent effects, cultivating innovation in the study of procedural graphics and their application to scene creation and content delivery. Prerequisite: VSFX 350.

VSFX 448 Visual Effects Studio II
Students collaborate to produce a visual effects product from start to finish that includes analysis and critique, organization and scheduling. The goal is to create a coherent body of work expressing students' personal artistic visions through their acquired skills. Prerequisite: VSFX 408.

VSFX 490 Visual Effects Portfolio
This course aims to prepare students for employment in the field of visual effects. Students investigate career opportunities and the requirements of the position of interest. Development of a portfolio and demo reel is enhanced by the continued study of motion graphics, compositing and sound. Prerequisite: VSFX 408.

VSFX 495 Special Topics in Visual Effects
The topic of this course varies from quarter to quarter. Each seminar focuses on various problems in the field of visual effects and allows advanced students to pursue individual or collaborative projects related to the subject of the course. Prerequisites: Vary according to topic.